In 1944, the New Martinsville Glass Company officially changed their name to Viking Glass Company. So, as not to confuse the very patriotic public (WWII was still in progress) and establish their American Company identity right from the start, their new slogan would be a picture of their Viking Glass Co. logo with the words “This trademark means made in America”.
Yup, same company, still located in New Martinsville, West Virginia just a new name and a new take on art glass.
One of Viking’s most popular lines was the Epic Line produced from 1956 to 1976. The line was populated with bold colors and freeform shapes perfect for the midcentury modern craze that had started. The original colors were:
- Amber
- Amethyst
- Charcoal
Handkerchief Bowl – Epic 1956
- Crystal
- Olive Green
The evolution of the line eventually included the colors:
- Avocado
- Bluenique
- Honey
- Persimmon
- Ruby
The Epic Art Glass line is beautiful, timeless and very collectible. It was what drew me into having a viking art glass collection myself. I love the line. They made vases, bowls, compotes, ashtrays, candleholders, candy dishes, figurines and more. Whether you are partial to persimmon glass bowls, a viking art glass amber candy dish or any other viking glassware, start looking for it everywhere.
Look in grandma’s sideboard or attic — trudge down to the basement — pay attention at flea markets or yard sales — visit eBay or local auctions, you might just find a piece of this gorgeous glassware lurking.
Checkout eBay for Viking Art Glass Epic Line items to add to or start your collection! They have an entire section dedicated to viking collectible glass so it’s not hard to find the Epic Line pieces.
Good Luck!
I was wondering how much of the Epic line was reproduced? I bought an Epic Line Fish. Some resources say it is 10″ H and mine is only about 9 1/4″. That is the only thing I can tell that is different about it. Looks exactly like others I have seen on the internet. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Lisa
Hi Lisa,
Can you tell me the color? Please visit this link, http://www.vikingartglass.com/photogallery.php?cat=10 and let me know if this is the right shape.
Mandee